Colonel Benjamin Aylett Branfill, (26/2/1828-9/1/1899). "a watm advocate of cremation"

In the brief biographical details available for Benjamin Branfill, he is described as "Colonel of the 10th Hussars and squire of Upminster Hall, Sussex." He came to New Zealand to enjoy his retirement in 1886.

Another well-known resident has been removed by the hand of death. Col. Benjamin Aylett Branfill, late of the 86th regiment, who died at his residence, Brook-street Valley, yesterday, took an active interest in the work of the Anglican church, and was for some time a member of the Diocesan Synod. His connection with art will be long remembered by the members of the Bishopdale Sketching Club, to whom he gave a great deal of a valuable advice. The deceased was a warm advocate of cremation, and often spoke of the risk of premature burial following an erroneous assumption of death. Mrs Cowx, the daughter of deceased, attended her father during his fatal illness, which was of short duration. The funeral is announced to leave the late residence of deceased at half-past twelve to- morrow.   -Nelson Evening Mail, 11/1/1899.

B.A. Branfill (1828-1899). Old Christ Church, circa 1884. Watercolour. Nelson Provincial Museum, Bett Loan Collection: AC468

Obituary.— We have to record the death of Colonel Benjamin Aylett Branfill, late of her Majesty's 86th Regiment, which occurred yesterday morning, at his residence, Brookstreet Valley. The deceased gentleman was in his seventy-first year, but until a few days ago he led an active life. He always took a keen interest in church work, and was a member of the Diocesan Synod. He was a keen advocate of the introduction of religious teaching in the State schools, and one of his last actions was the issuing of a letter on that subject. He was also devoted to art, and while he painted himself, he was always ready to assist students by kindly criticisms, and in that way he rendered valuable service to the members of the Bishopdale Sketching Club and others. His kindly nature endeared him to many, and even those who differed with him on certain questions were compelled to respect him as an upright man of noble intentions. It will be a comfort to his daughter, Mrs Cowx, to know that she was with her father during his later hours, and that lady will have the sympathy of very many friends in her great bereavement.  -Colonist, 11/1/1899.

Wakapuaka Cemetery, Nelson.